“If our families are not well, society cannot be well”: Catholic Bishop in Angola

Bishop Camuto insisted that the Word of God must have a central place in daily family life.

“We need the Word of God to be present in our families. It is necessary to speak about God in our homes, to our children,” the Angolan member of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (CSSp./Holy Ghost Fathers/Spiritans) said.

Reflecting on the challenges communities face, Bishop Camuto pointed to weak family structures as a root cause of social problems, including crime and youth delinquency. 

He noted that some parents are often shocked when their children become involved in criminal activity, warning that this is often the result of a lack of guidance and attention at home.

The Catholic Church leader also stressed that family education remains one of the most effective ways to combat crime and promote responsibility in society, urging parents not to neglect their role in raising children.

Turning to social concerns, Bishop Camuto denounced theft and exploitation affecting rural communities, saying many farmers lose the fruits of their labor due to dishonest practices. 

He criticized the tendency of some individuals to benefit from others’ work instead of earning their own livelihood.

“We have a rich land, but there are people who prefer to take what others have planted,” Bishop Camuto said, calling for a change of mindset and greater respect for work and property.

The Local Ordinary of Caxito urged Christians to move from words to action.

“We are full of words, but empty of deeds,” he said, encouraging believers to ensure that their lives reflect their faith.